TAXI drivers will now have equal say in consultations over fare structures throughout the town.

The move comes after an industry worker pleaded with West Dunbartonshire Council to include those on the front line as well as taxi operators, who have previously been the only consultants.

Taxi fare structures are reviewed annually – and were only updated in Clydebank just four months ago – however, the changes will be brought into effect in time for next year’s review.

Allan MacLeod, of Clydebank Public Hire Association, told last Wednesday’s licensing committee meeting: “There’s nothing to suggest that drivers aren’t operators of taxis. The only argument put forward was drivers aren’t considered operators because no [other local authorities] do it.

“But when it comes to discussing fares that are the highest in the country the council says to us that everyone else does it wrong – that may well be true but can’t be used in both cases.

“Nothing compels the council not to bring drivers in to it.”

Council officers confirmed there is no legislation which requires the local authority to consult drivers as well as operators, however, Councillor Jonathan McColl determined both groups could put their views forward provided the results are submitted separately when they appear before the council.

However, the move was met with opposition by an operator who claimed the change would threaten the survival of his business.

John Gallacher, a multiple taxi plate holder, said: “I do everything for my drivers. If a driver gets three points on their licence, I also get three points on my licence.

“Drivers shouldn’t have a say on how the fare structure operates because a driver could have six months experience. I have seen on three or four occasions that the taxi trade has been brought to it’s knees because of increases and I have fought to stop it. Why should drivers get a say on how my business operates?”

He added: “If I ask a guy with six months experience ‘do you want a fare rise?’ he’s going to say yes. It’s as simple as that.”

However, Councillor Ian Dickson disputed Mr Gallacher’s claims that drivers should not have a say in the industry, stating: “If they hire a vehicle, they’re self-employed so they’re business operators.”

Cllr McColl assured Mr Gallacher not to be worried about the impact drivers’ having a say in the structure would cause to his business as councillors would consider both viewpoints equally.